The Nigerian Senate has decided to suspend action on the contentious tax reform bills currently under consideration. This decision comes as pressure mounts from various stakeholders and amid widespread controversy surrounding the proposed legislation.
During a plenary session held on Wednesday, Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau announced the formation of an ad-hoc committee tasked with engaging the federal government to address the contentious areas within the bills. "It has been agreed by the executive and also by us that there should be a forum where we will sit with the Attorney General of the Federation, so that we can look at all the areas of disagreement and resolve them in the interest of this nation," Barau stated.
The tax reform bills, which include the Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2024, and the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill, 2024, have faced opposition, particularly from northern governors who have labeled them as anti-democratic. The National Economic Council has requested the withdrawal of these bills for further consultation.
Barau emphasized the Senate's role as a stabilizing force, saying, "The Senate comprises men and women of wisdom and experience, entrusted to legislate for the peace, stability, and development of the nation." He further noted that the Senate is committed to setting aside politics, ethnicity, and regionalism to work collaboratively with the Executive Arm of Government to ensure national unity and progress.
The newly formed committee, chaired by Abba Morro, minority leader, includes members such as Mohamed Tahiri Mongono, Adamu Aleiro, Oji Uzor Kalu, Deriake Dickson, Titus Zam, Abdullahi Yahaya, Adeola Solomon, Sani Musa, and Tokunbo Abiru. They are expected to meet with the Attorney General on Thursday to address the issues causing public uproar.
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